Health Encyclopedia

Vegetarian Diet

What Is a Vegetarian Diet?

A vegetarian diet excludes meat, poultry, fish, and foods containing these products. There are many different variations of the vegetarian diet. This article focuses on the lacto-ovo-vegetarian diet, which is based on plant foods, but also includes eggs and dairy.

Why Follow a Vegetarian Diet?

There are many health benefits associated with following a vegetarian diet. In general, vegetarian diets tend to be lower in saturated fat and cholesterol, and provide higher amounts of many vitamins and minerals than traditional western diets. Moreover, a well-balanced vegetarian diet may help:

People choose to follow a vegetarian diet for many different reasons, including health benefits, concern for the environment, and concern for animal welfare.

Vegetarian Diet Basics

A lacto-ovo-vegetarian diet is based on plant foods such as grains, vegetables, fruits, legumes, seeds, and nuts, in addition to dairy and eggs. To make sure that you meet all your nutrient needs on this diet, be sure to eat a variety of each of these types of foods. Nutrients that deserve extra attention to make sure they are eaten in sufficient amounts include: protein,
iron
,
calcium
,
zinc
,
vitamin B12
,
vitamin D
, and
omega-3 fatty acids
.

Eating Guide for a Vegetarian Diet

This guide is based on the United States food guide, MyPlate. The latest information on the types of food included in each food category is available at
http://www.choosemyplate.gov/
.

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.